KNYSNA NEWS - “Western Cape Government Health in Eden have received numerous enquiries regarding the circulation of Influenza A(H1N1), also known as “swine flu”.
It is important to note that this flu (swine flu), is now part of our seasonal strain since 2012, thus there would most probably have been confirmed cases in George or anywhere else in the country.
"However H1N1 is not a notifiable disease anymore. Routine laboratory testing of patients with influenza illness is not required. Anyone who had contracted flu, should try as far as possible to avoid making contact with other people. When you cough or sneeze, do it into a tissue or the [crook of your arm]. Wash your hands frequently, take lots of fluids and rest."
This was said by Nadia Ferreira, principal communications officer of Eden and Central Karoo Districts who issued the following information.
“This strain of flu behaves just like any other normal seasonal flu strain. The clinical presentation, severity and management of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 is the same as for seasonal flu. Identification of patients with this strain during this influenza season should be treated as any other seasonal flu case. There are no specific public health interventions recommended for this strain. Antiviral agents such as Tamiflu are recommended for persons at risk of complications. Antiviral agents are not generally prescribed for contacts of persons with influenza as a preventative measure.
"Every year during the winter months between May and August, South Africa experiences an increase in influenza (commonly known as flu) circulation.
"In the majority of people flu is an uncomplicated illness lasting 3 - 7 days. The illness is characterised by sudden onset of constitutional and respiratory symptoms such as fever, body pains, cough, sore throat, runny nose and headache.
"However, flu can cause serious illness in some people leading to hospitalisation and even death. People at increased risk of developing severe influenza include pregnant women(all stages), young children(6-59 months), the elderly(65yrs+), and people with certain health conditions, such as heart, lung or kidney disease, nervous system disorders, or a weakened immune system. Flu vaccination is especially important for these people.
"A flu vaccine, available for free at your clinic, remains the primary means for preventing seasonal flu infection. Flu viruses are always changing therefore each year’s flu vaccine is made to protect against three viruses that are likely to cause disease that specific year.
"Because influenza is highly contagious, being spread by respiratory droplets (from sneezing and coughing), by touching surfaces that other people have touched and touching other people, it can spread easily especially in closed communities (like schools, work place and institutions). General preventative precautions should be taken - such as hand washing, cough hygiene and avoiding contact with people who are ill should also be considered."
• Sudden onset of fever
• Acute upper respiratory symptoms: dry cough, sore throat
• General symptoms: malaise, headache, fatigue, muscle pain and body aches , cold shivers and hot sweats
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhoea, though this is more common in children than adults.
What are the possible complications?
While most influenza illness is mild, complications (particularly pneumonia) are always a concern in persons with underlying conditions or certain risk factors.
• Complications involving other organs: ear infections, sinus infections, encephalitis, severe dehydration, renal failure and multiple organ failure.
• Worsening of underlying conditions such as: asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), diabetes, hypertension, renal or liver insufficiency, Congestive Cardiac Failure (CCF) and other cardiovascular diseases.
How do you treat flu?
Most of the treatment is generic and involves symptom relief unless the individual is very sick or is at risk of developing complications . For uncomplicated cases at low risk then the prevention of further spread and the following measures are advised:
• Bed rest• Drink plenty of water and other clear fluids
• Symptomatic treatment for cough, fever, nasal congestion, etc.
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